Wedding altar made of wooden sticks and bouquets stands before the rows of white garden chairs
Marriage is a sacred bond between two people who love and respect each other. It is also a social institution that has its own norms and values in different cultures and regions. In the UAE, marriage is influenced by Islamic principles, traditions, and customs. It also has different laws and regulations depending on the nationality and religion of the couple. For example, Muslim couples must follow Sharia law, while non-Muslim couples can opt for a civil marriage.
However, marriage is not always easy and smooth. It requires constant effort, commitment, and compromise from both partners. There are many challenges and difficulties that couples may face in their married life, such as communication issues, financial problems, cultural differences, family conflicts, etc. How can couples overcome these challenges and maintain a happy and successful marriage in the UAE?
Here are some tips and advice that may help:
1- Accept and appreciate your partner for who they are.
Don’t try to change your partner or impose your expectations on them. Instead, appreciate their uniqueness and individuality. Celebrate their achievements and support them in their failures. Show them that you love them unconditionally and respect their choices and opinions.
2- Communicate effectively and respectfully.
Communicate your feelings, thoughts, needs, and desires to your partner clearly and honestly. Listen to your partner attentively and empathetically. Try to understand their perspective and emotions. Avoid using harsh words, sarcasm, or insults. Use positive language, compliments, and humor instead.
3- Spend quality time together and nurture intimacy.
Date nights, weekend getaways, and simple gestures of affection strengthen the emotional connection. Understand each other’s needs and desires in the realm of intimacy. Promote a fulfilling and lasting relationship.
4- Respect each other’s culture and religion.
The UAE is a diverse and multicultural country, where people from different backgrounds, cultures, and religions coexist peacefully. However, this diversity can also create some challenges for intercultural or interfaith marriages. Respect each other’s culture and religion without imposing your own beliefs or values on your partner. Learn about their traditions, customs, festivals, food, etc. Participate in their celebrations and rituals. Respect their family and friends. Be open-minded and tolerant.
5- Manage your finances wisely.
Money is one of the most common causes of conflict in marriages. It can create stress, tension, resentment, and distrust between partners. The UAE has a high cost of living and inflation, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Therefore, manage your finances wisely as a couple in the UAE. Discuss your income, expenses, savings, debts, goals, etc. Create a budget and stick to it. Be transparent and honest about your financial situation. Don’t hide or lie about your spending habits or debts. Don’t overspend or be stingy. Share the responsibility of paying bills and saving money.
6- Respect each other’s privacy and boundaries.
Even though you are married, you still have your own identity, interests, hobbies, and friends. You don’t have to share everything with your partner or do everything together. It is healthy to have some space and time for yourself, as well as to respect your partner’s need for the same. Don’t invade their privacy by checking their phone, email, or social media accounts without their permission. Don’t interfere with their personal or professional matters unless they ask for your help or advice. Don’t be clingy or possessive. Trust them and let them trust you.
7- Compromise and negotiate.
No two people are exactly alike, and no marriage is perfect. You and your partner will have different opinions, preferences, tastes, and values. You will also have conflicts, disagreements, and arguments from time to time. That’s normal and inevitable. The key is to compromise and negotiate with each other in a fair and respectful way. Don’t try to win every argument or impose your will on your partner. Don’t hold grudges or resentment. Instead, try to understand their point of view and find a middle ground that works for both of you.
8- Seek help when needed.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may face some problems or issues in your marriage that you cannot resolve on your own. In such cases, it is advisable to seek help from a professional counselor or therapist who can guide you through the process of healing and reconciliation. You can also seek help from trusted friends, family members, religious leaders, or community groups who can offer you support and advice.
Marriage is a beautiful journey that can bring you joy, happiness, peace, and fulfillment. However, it also requires hard work, patience, and dedication from both partners. By following these tips and advice, you can enhance your relationship and enjoy a happy and successful marriage in the UAE.
If you need help with the legal aspects of marriage in the UAE, such as assessing your eligibility, preparing and submitting the required documents, applying for a marriage license, or resolving any legal issues or disputes. Marriage lawyers at Dubai Court Marriage can assist you with the best options and procedures for your specific case, whether you are a resident or a visitor, a Muslim or a non-Muslim, or an intercultural or interfaith couple. With their expertise and experience, they can ensure that your marriage is valid and recognized in the UAE and abroad. For more information about our marriage services, you can visit our official website or learn about the legal requirements and conditions of marriage in the UAE.